What do you think?
Rate this book
If We Break Up
From the author of THE LAST WISH OF SASHA
Honey Blackwell’s high school sweetheart is getting on her nerves. Like everyone else in their small town, Luca thinks he and Honey should take over his family business and live happily ever after. Honey wants more. That’s why she secretly applied to her dream college in Colorado. When she gets in, Luca is devastated. After the biggest argument of their lives, Honey discovers a scientific journal that claims people find their true soul mate after being in five relationships. She poses this experiment to Luca, and soon they’ve made a pact to break up, go on five dates with different people, and then decide if they’re truly meant to be together forever. It’s science, after all, and science has never let Honey down.
Finding people to date is awkward, exciting, and a little futile. None of Honey’s dates are soul mate material, which is starting to prove Luca’s hypothesis—that they are already soul mates. When the rest of STEM club comes down with food poisoning, Honey finds herself at the weekend science convention with Mason, her mortal enemy. Mason, the guy who also got into her dream college. The guy she just accidentally kissed.
She likes him. But she loves Luca. As she struggles to choose between the picture-perfect future she already has and the temptation of the unknown, she learns that love isn’t a scientific equation. It’s a choice. And now Honey must make hers.
Honey Blackwell’s high school sweetheart is getting on her nerves. Like everyone else in their small town, Luca thinks he and Honey should take over his family business and live happily ever after. Honey wants more. That’s why she secretly applied to her dream college in Colorado. When she gets in, Luca is devastated. After the biggest argument of their lives, Honey discovers a scientific journal that claims people find their true soul mate after being in five relationships. She poses this experiment to Luca, and soon they’ve made a pact to break up, go on five dates with different people, and then decide if they’re truly meant to be together forever. It’s science, after all, and science has never let Honey down.
Finding people to date is awkward, exciting, and a little futile. None of Honey’s dates are soul mate material, which is starting to prove Luca’s hypothesis—that they are already soul mates. When the rest of STEM club comes down with food poisoning, Honey finds herself at the weekend science convention with Mason, her mortal enemy. Mason, the guy who also got into her dream college. The guy she just accidentally kissed.
She likes him. But she loves Luca. As she struggles to choose between the picture-perfect future she already has and the temptation of the unknown, she learns that love isn’t a scientific equation. It’s a choice. And now Honey must make hers.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2022
140 people are currently reading
590 people want to read
About the author
Cheyanne Young
17books584followersCheyanne Young lives in Houston, Texas and is an award-winning author of several books for young adults, including The Last Wish of Sasha Cade, which is being adapted into a TV mini-series by Waterside Studios. She has a Master of Library Science degree from Texas Woman’s University and works as a Teen Librarian.
Cheyanne has a fear of cold weather and a coffee addiction that probably needs an intervention. She loves books, glitter, and sarcasm. Her hidden talents include being able to say the alphabet backwards and typing 130 words per minute. She lives with her family, two spoiled rotten dogs, and a cat that is most likely plotting to take over the world.
Cheyanne has a fear of cold weather and a coffee addiction that probably needs an intervention. She loves books, glitter, and sarcasm. Her hidden talents include being able to say the alphabet backwards and typing 130 words per minute. She lives with her family, two spoiled rotten dogs, and a cat that is most likely plotting to take over the world.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
February 22, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Quinnova Press for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars!
Something about this book really pulled me in! It was incredibly fast paced and kept me on my feet.
Going into reading this I was expecting to feel heartbroken and I feel like that’s where it fell flat for me.
I didn’t really connect with any of the characters so the whole time I was thinking I really didn’t mind where things ended up.
Navigating heartbreak as a teen is such a hard thing, but as portrayed in this story it didn’t necessarily hit that mark for me.
Nonetheless, it was a cute idea for sure and I was flying through the pages!
I think this story is directed towards younger teens and for that it is such a cute read!
3.5 stars!
Something about this book really pulled me in! It was incredibly fast paced and kept me on my feet.
Going into reading this I was expecting to feel heartbroken and I feel like that’s where it fell flat for me.
I didn’t really connect with any of the characters so the whole time I was thinking I really didn’t mind where things ended up.
Navigating heartbreak as a teen is such a hard thing, but as portrayed in this story it didn’t necessarily hit that mark for me.
Nonetheless, it was a cute idea for sure and I was flying through the pages!
I think this story is directed towards younger teens and for that it is such a cute read!
February 25, 2022
There was a specific moment in this book that I think it summarizes this reading experience for me. The main character was talking about how when you get used to something, it doesn't have that spark anymore. For instance, you can love pizza, but once you regularly eat it, a pizza is just a pizza. No matter how much you enjoy it. That's how I felt about this book - it doesn't matter how much I love to read YA or romance books if I keep reading the same formula over and over.
I think the book had a nice concept and it was well thought, but I just couldn't help thinking I wasn't reading anything new, anything that brought something different to the table. I didn't enjoy the characters and I was bored for the majority of the story. Maybe if I had read the book in my teenage years, I would've had a different opinion.
I received an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Quinnova Press and Netgalley!
I think the book had a nice concept and it was well thought, but I just couldn't help thinking I wasn't reading anything new, anything that brought something different to the table. I didn't enjoy the characters and I was bored for the majority of the story. Maybe if I had read the book in my teenage years, I would've had a different opinion.
I received an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Quinnova Press and Netgalley!
January 9, 2022
If We Break Up is based on a simple idea: how do you know if the person you think you love is your soulmate? Honey and Luca have been together their entire lives, but Honey's starting to question if what she's been told she wants is truly what will make her happy.
Young has become a must-read author for me. The characters come to life on the page—they have depth and flaws and you can't help but cheer for their happiness—and the joy and heartbreak is absolutely believable. I didn't want it to end!
**I received an advanced copy of this novel for an honest review**
Young has become a must-read author for me. The characters come to life on the page—they have depth and flaws and you can't help but cheer for their happiness—and the joy and heartbreak is absolutely believable. I didn't want it to end!
**I received an advanced copy of this novel for an honest review**
January 9, 2022
Honey & Luca's relationship was chosen for them since they were practically babies. Now on the verge of graduating high school, Luca thinks that they should go to the same college together & then get into their family business together as well. But Honey got into her dream college in another state which puts their relationship on strain.
According to a science research, they both decide to take a break & go on 5 dates each before finding their way back-to their Soulmate-each other.
Amidst these dates, Honey discovers herself and struggles to find her happiness which inclues a certain someone (Mason) from her STEM club.
This was such a beautiful coming of age novel. Honey was a sweet, quirky character & I loved her confidence.
Honey & Mason's banter was highly entertaining & swoony.
I liked the love triangle aspect of the book which made it interesting.
The ending couldn't have been any better!!
Thank you (author) for the gifted arc, all thoughts are my own.
According to a science research, they both decide to take a break & go on 5 dates each before finding their way back-to their Soulmate-each other.
Amidst these dates, Honey discovers herself and struggles to find her happiness which inclues a certain someone (Mason) from her STEM club.
This was such a beautiful coming of age novel. Honey was a sweet, quirky character & I loved her confidence.
Honey & Mason's banter was highly entertaining & swoony.
I liked the love triangle aspect of the book which made it interesting.
The ending couldn't have been any better!!
Thank you (author) for the gifted arc, all thoughts are my own.
January 3, 2022
If We Break Up started off as what I was hoping for, but become what I didn’t know I needed.
Honey and Luca have been together all of their lives. Their families work together, live down the road from each other, and are an essential staple to the small town in which they live. Everyone expects them to grow up, get married, and continue the family business� except Honey, when one thought of uncertainty propels her and Luca to really question their soulmate comparability.
If We Break Up’s effortless writing made this book feel like a well-read favorite. Everyone’s relationship was excellent; Honey and Luca’s, Homey and Maggie’s, Honey and Mason’s, Aunt Bree’s relationship with, well everyone, and of course the parents relationship with the kids. The characters relationships and actions were very relatable and understandable, making the love and heartbreak of this story shine through excellently.
I also loved the pacing of each scene. It surprised me how some scenes I thought would be more drawn out weren’t, but the simplicity really helped make an in impact and drive home the theme messages of the book. I can’t wait to see what Cheyanne Young does next!
*I was sent an ARC for an honest review*
Honey and Luca have been together all of their lives. Their families work together, live down the road from each other, and are an essential staple to the small town in which they live. Everyone expects them to grow up, get married, and continue the family business� except Honey, when one thought of uncertainty propels her and Luca to really question their soulmate comparability.
If We Break Up’s effortless writing made this book feel like a well-read favorite. Everyone’s relationship was excellent; Honey and Luca’s, Homey and Maggie’s, Honey and Mason’s, Aunt Bree’s relationship with, well everyone, and of course the parents relationship with the kids. The characters relationships and actions were very relatable and understandable, making the love and heartbreak of this story shine through excellently.
I also loved the pacing of each scene. It surprised me how some scenes I thought would be more drawn out weren’t, but the simplicity really helped make an in impact and drive home the theme messages of the book. I can’t wait to see what Cheyanne Young does next!
*I was sent an ARC for an honest review*
March 1, 2022
This is a fun, lighthearted YA romance that deals with college choices, first love and the expectations that come with being part of a family business.
I must say that I’m not a fan of the cover as it looks a bit DIY, but this is a classic case where you should look behind that. The book is really well-written, the characters are relatable and the story is a lot of fun. The outcome is kind of predictable, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. After all, you know what you’re gonna get when reading a romance novel.
I must say that I’m not a fan of the cover as it looks a bit DIY, but this is a classic case where you should look behind that. The book is really well-written, the characters are relatable and the story is a lot of fun. The outcome is kind of predictable, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. After all, you know what you’re gonna get when reading a romance novel.
May 10, 2022
Another entertaining teen read by Cheyanne Young! The romance is subtle but very present, and the story accurately portrays a girl in turmoil over her future and the pressures of her family. I really enjoyed it.
August 27, 2022
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
If We Break Up was a pretty cute book. In it, you will meet Honey. Now she has her dream college in her sights but feels like one thing is holding her back: her boyfriend. Then there's her group of friends who constantly gush about him and their relationship. Honestly, if I was in her shoes, I would get annoyed very easily. Oh wait, I was in her shoes.
So, things get awkward after they make a pact to break up and go on five dates with different people. I wasn't exactly sure how things were going to go down with this new thing but was excited nonetheless to watch this trainwreck. Throw in a possible love triangle, or any other love shape, and I was completely hooked.
If I had to pick Luca or Mason, I would go for Mason. I just really enjoyed their chemistry and the bantering between them made me smile. Doesn't mean I don't like Luca, I do. I would just like him with someone else. Other than that, she does make some tough decisions that will only help better herself and her future.
Definitely enjoyed the heck out of this and can't wait for what Cheyanne writes next!
If We Break Up was a pretty cute book. In it, you will meet Honey. Now she has her dream college in her sights but feels like one thing is holding her back: her boyfriend. Then there's her group of friends who constantly gush about him and their relationship. Honestly, if I was in her shoes, I would get annoyed very easily. Oh wait, I was in her shoes.
So, things get awkward after they make a pact to break up and go on five dates with different people. I wasn't exactly sure how things were going to go down with this new thing but was excited nonetheless to watch this trainwreck. Throw in a possible love triangle, or any other love shape, and I was completely hooked.
If I had to pick Luca or Mason, I would go for Mason. I just really enjoyed their chemistry and the bantering between them made me smile. Doesn't mean I don't like Luca, I do. I would just like him with someone else. Other than that, she does make some tough decisions that will only help better herself and her future.
Definitely enjoyed the heck out of this and can't wait for what Cheyanne writes next!
March 8, 2022
A fellow reviewer once said to me that she didn’t like reading romances because they were so predictable. That you always knew that love would win in the end, and so she was never surprised, and so, following her advice, I didn’t read romances for the longest time, until I started stumbling across some written by authors I knew on Instagram. Cheyanne Young was one such author. Her last book, The Last Wish of Sasha Cade, blew me away. Yes, it was a romance, but it was not predictable in any way.
And that got me started on reading romances. Seeking out the really good ones, because, 99% of everything is dreck. There are bad romances just as there are bad science fiction.
So, I was pleasantly surprised that Cheyanne has come out with a new romance, “If We Break Up�.
The basic story is that Honey has been with her boyfriend since nearly birth, and he is comfortable and nice, like a good pair of jeans, but there is nothing surprising about him. And she wonders if she should try dating five other people to see if perhaps there is more to life.
The story is told by Honey, and she has a great voice, and the both is both funny and heart breaking as a good romance should be. This is a love triangle, even though Honey doesn’t realize it, and although when we begin the book we are rooting for Luca, by the middle we are wondering if that is who should win, despite the narrator swearing up and down that Luca should.
A fun read. Good turns of phrases.
If you love a good YA romance, this is the book for you.
If you are tired of YA romances, you should give this one a try.
And if you think romances are boring and predictable, you might find that this is the exception to the rule.
Thanks to the publisher for making this book available for an honest review.
And that got me started on reading romances. Seeking out the really good ones, because, 99% of everything is dreck. There are bad romances just as there are bad science fiction.
So, I was pleasantly surprised that Cheyanne has come out with a new romance, “If We Break Up�.
The basic story is that Honey has been with her boyfriend since nearly birth, and he is comfortable and nice, like a good pair of jeans, but there is nothing surprising about him. And she wonders if she should try dating five other people to see if perhaps there is more to life.
The story is told by Honey, and she has a great voice, and the both is both funny and heart breaking as a good romance should be. This is a love triangle, even though Honey doesn’t realize it, and although when we begin the book we are rooting for Luca, by the middle we are wondering if that is who should win, despite the narrator swearing up and down that Luca should.
A fun read. Good turns of phrases.
If you love a good YA romance, this is the book for you.
If you are tired of YA romances, you should give this one a try.
And if you think romances are boring and predictable, you might find that this is the exception to the rule.
Thanks to the publisher for making this book available for an honest review.
July 18, 2024
I'm lucky that I got this book for free. It's a traditional YA romance in which the antagonists are having a dilemma with their relationship. Also, I hate the college thing. I really felt bad for Honey that she needed to fight for her right to do what she really wanted in life.
March 8, 2022
Honey and Luca were always destined to be together. Neighbors with parents that are best friends and business partners. The whole town has the opinion that they're going to get married and be just like they're parents. Take over the family business and create a family just like the one they came from.
Luca has the opinion that they're definitely soulmates. Honey questions it. They agree to go on five dates to see if they really are soulmates and everything they were raised to be.
The ending was perfect. Literally perfect. It's a book about finding confidence in yourself and trusting your gut. Do what makes YOU happy. And that's a statement I can always get behind.
Side note: As a Filipina, I loved that the Filipino culture was represented in this beautiful story. And it was done so well.
Luca has the opinion that they're definitely soulmates. Honey questions it. They agree to go on five dates to see if they really are soulmates and everything they were raised to be.
The ending was perfect. Literally perfect. It's a book about finding confidence in yourself and trusting your gut. Do what makes YOU happy. And that's a statement I can always get behind.
Side note: As a Filipina, I loved that the Filipino culture was represented in this beautiful story. And it was done so well.
January 11, 2022
Not going to lie� I judge books by their covers, and you’re lying if you say you doing. The cover and title caught my attention. Was lucky enough to be gifted an ARC and absolutely loved it.
The story is sweet and simple, until it’s not. I feel like I connected with Honey on a deeply emotional level. I felt anxious for her. I was upset with her. I was angry for her. I laughed with her. I cried for her (AND I HATE CRYING!) And I admired her.
It’s my first book by Cheyanne Young and now I need to go pull all of her books in my lists.
The story is sweet and simple, until it’s not. I feel like I connected with Honey on a deeply emotional level. I felt anxious for her. I was upset with her. I was angry for her. I laughed with her. I cried for her (AND I HATE CRYING!) And I admired her.
It’s my first book by Cheyanne Young and now I need to go pull all of her books in my lists.
February 6, 2022
All my reviews can be found at: htpp://jessicasreadingroom.com
~~~~
This review will appear on my site on February 7, 2022.
~~~~
I loved If We Break Up! This is a YA contemporary novel with a simple premise to it: Honey (Yes, that is her name!) and Luca have grown up together their whole lives and both sets of their parents were high school sweethearts and all work together. Honey and Luca are ‘the couple� at their high school and their whole lives are already planned out. But�. Honey has doubts. Then she finds an article that says you find your soulmate after five relationships. Honey and Luca decide to mutually break up and go on five dates and then decide if they want to get back together.
But finding five dates is harder than Honey planned on. And she did not plan on the feelings she felt seeing Luca with other girls� Then Honey starts seeing her long term ‘enemy� Mason in a different way after a weekend together for a STEM club event.
What will Honey decide to do????
I know what my opinion of Luca and Mason both were and what direction I wanted Honey to go in. You think the novel will end up going in one direction and then Young pulls a jab in there and throws you off. This happened a few times for me as the novel went in directions I was not expecting, which includes family drama.
If We Break Up takes place in Texas and an earlier chapter brings us to Dinosaur Valley State Park. I really enjoyed this chapter because my sister lived in Texas for a few years and when I visited her we went there. I really enjoyed remembering that trip!
The ending was absolutely perfect! This novel ended the way it needed to and I adored it. This is a coming-of-age novel and Honey does learn about herself by the end. Will Honey choose the known with Luca or go for her dream? Or will it be a little bit of both?? You must read If We Break Up to find out!
Many thanks to the author Cheyanne Young for sending me an arc to read and review!
If We Break Up is highly recommended!
~~~~
This review will appear on my site on February 7, 2022.
~~~~
I loved If We Break Up! This is a YA contemporary novel with a simple premise to it: Honey (Yes, that is her name!) and Luca have grown up together their whole lives and both sets of their parents were high school sweethearts and all work together. Honey and Luca are ‘the couple� at their high school and their whole lives are already planned out. But�. Honey has doubts. Then she finds an article that says you find your soulmate after five relationships. Honey and Luca decide to mutually break up and go on five dates and then decide if they want to get back together.
But finding five dates is harder than Honey planned on. And she did not plan on the feelings she felt seeing Luca with other girls� Then Honey starts seeing her long term ‘enemy� Mason in a different way after a weekend together for a STEM club event.
What will Honey decide to do????
I know what my opinion of Luca and Mason both were and what direction I wanted Honey to go in. You think the novel will end up going in one direction and then Young pulls a jab in there and throws you off. This happened a few times for me as the novel went in directions I was not expecting, which includes family drama.
If We Break Up takes place in Texas and an earlier chapter brings us to Dinosaur Valley State Park. I really enjoyed this chapter because my sister lived in Texas for a few years and when I visited her we went there. I really enjoyed remembering that trip!
The ending was absolutely perfect! This novel ended the way it needed to and I adored it. This is a coming-of-age novel and Honey does learn about herself by the end. Will Honey choose the known with Luca or go for her dream? Or will it be a little bit of both?? You must read If We Break Up to find out!
Many thanks to the author Cheyanne Young for sending me an arc to read and review!
If We Break Up is highly recommended!
February 17, 2022
High school seniors Honey and Luca have been together since the day they were born; their parents are next door neighbors and best friends. Honey and Luca have always been together and the plan after high school is to attend Texas A&M together and work for the company that their parents own, settling down in their small Texas town.
And then Honey decides that maybe she doesn't want the easy, expected path after she is accepted at her "dream school" in Colorado. And maybe she doesn't really want the path that includes Luca and Texas A&M.
In order to see if they're doing the right thing, Honey and Luca decide to follow in the footsteps of a scientific study that Honey found online. It suggests that people find their soulmates after 5 relationships. So the two decide to go on 5 dates before high school graduation, to make sure they are soulmates,
Will they end up together? I think readers will see the end coming way in advance.
And then Honey decides that maybe she doesn't want the easy, expected path after she is accepted at her "dream school" in Colorado. And maybe she doesn't really want the path that includes Luca and Texas A&M.
In order to see if they're doing the right thing, Honey and Luca decide to follow in the footsteps of a scientific study that Honey found online. It suggests that people find their soulmates after 5 relationships. So the two decide to go on 5 dates before high school graduation, to make sure they are soulmates,
Will they end up together? I think readers will see the end coming way in advance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2022
Aww. I knew I would enjoy this book. Cheyenne writes so beautifully you can't help but be pulled in. I kept going back and forth on how the story would go, got a little tense but even though it ended as I expected it was still written amazingly. Looking forward to reading more from Cheyenne Young.
June 11, 2022
What a unique concept! I love a YA romance and this one didn’t disappoint. The boy next door is one of my favs but the way Young put a spin in this is amazing. I read it in one car ride!
December 10, 2023
I think this was a case of reading a book at the right time and I enjoyed it immensely. Not something profound, but a quick read for some personal reflection.
February 15, 2023
When I first started reading it I thought I would hate it, but the more I read, the more I got invested. Honey is a good character and I like how she seems human. I love that she actually has interests and how her story pans out.
Luca, aka her "best friend"?? I tried to like him, but I couldn't. He gave me controlling vibes when she talked about uni and their relationship. I'm glad they broke up for good, cause i got SO mad when she went back to him for a bit.
I feel like the end was wrapped up a bit too quickly and it felt a bit rushed like suddenly there's so much happening near the end of the book, which I feel should have been more detailed in their own respective chapters.
Luca, aka her "best friend"?? I tried to like him, but I couldn't. He gave me controlling vibes when she talked about uni and their relationship. I'm glad they broke up for good, cause i got SO mad when she went back to him for a bit.
I feel like the end was wrapped up a bit too quickly and it felt a bit rushed like suddenly there's so much happening near the end of the book, which I feel should have been more detailed in their own respective chapters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2024
En una época en donde las novelas juveniles son una mierda predecible que no sabemos porque son best seller, este libro está bueno! Te da lo que promete, adolescentes con problemas de adolescentes.
February 20, 2022
Love is a choice. And Honey must make hers.
🛣
Honey Blackwell is half of the senior class’s perfect couple. Together with Luca they make up Prom King and Queen and Stockwell’s most perfect pairing because their parents are also high school sweethearts who fell in love, got married and started a business together. Honey and Luca will attend A&M University together then return home to marry and settle down. That would all be great if Honey wasn’t hiding the fact that she got into her dream school in Colorado. She also isn’t so sure she and Luca are soulmates so they hatch a plan to go out with 5 different people the last 5 weeks of school then decide if they want to be together forever. A lot can happen in 5 weeks.
🛣
Fans of 10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston will love this book. I read it in one sitting. I loved every page. So much angst, character diversity and exactly what I wanted out of a young adult romance. Grab your copy March 8!
CW: car accident, alcohol
🛣
Honey Blackwell is half of the senior class’s perfect couple. Together with Luca they make up Prom King and Queen and Stockwell’s most perfect pairing because their parents are also high school sweethearts who fell in love, got married and started a business together. Honey and Luca will attend A&M University together then return home to marry and settle down. That would all be great if Honey wasn’t hiding the fact that she got into her dream school in Colorado. She also isn’t so sure she and Luca are soulmates so they hatch a plan to go out with 5 different people the last 5 weeks of school then decide if they want to be together forever. A lot can happen in 5 weeks.
🛣
Fans of 10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston will love this book. I read it in one sitting. I loved every page. So much angst, character diversity and exactly what I wanted out of a young adult romance. Grab your copy March 8!
CW: car accident, alcohol
March 22, 2022
Cheyanne Young has a way of flipping a plot line and enticing you to want to turn the page. If We Break Up is a wonderful story for teen readers but the interesting twists make it just as enjoyable for adults. Honey’s loyalty to her family and boyfriend conflict with her yearning desire to break away from her small town responsibilities and find her own way in the world. But if you think you know Honey and what will happen, think again. No spoilers here though. You’ll have to read it. Young is smart to release this in the spring because IWBU is a perfect spring break or summer vacation read. Loved it.
February 27, 2022
I want to thank the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review! I loved this one so much. Honey is strong, independent and wants so much more than what her small town has to offer. Her and her boyfriend have been together for a long time and everyone has planned their future for them, but no one bothered to ask Honey.
I loved this one so much! I loved Honey and her family. The way her family and Luca's families are intertwined in everything that they do. I understood the different pressures that Honey was feeling. I really loved Mason and wish we got to know him more. I highly recommend this one!!
Women in STEM, Asian rep
I loved this one so much! I loved Honey and her family. The way her family and Luca's families are intertwined in everything that they do. I understood the different pressures that Honey was feeling. I really loved Mason and wish we got to know him more. I highly recommend this one!!
Women in STEM, Asian rep
October 12, 2023
Wrong Title, Good Book
This book is so promising. It's probably one of the best free reads I've received from Amazon this year. That's not to say there's a few plot holes that I would love to be filled, like Hiney not being that great of a friend and how she was pretty selfish despite being surrounded by seemingly great people. I also would've like to at least get a last word from ALL the characters they introduced from the STEM club, her best friend, and her dad.
I really liked the idea of Honey wanting to find her soul mate, although she'd way too young to have even been focused on that. The really interesting thing about it is that it's possible Luca is actually her soul mate. The fireworks feeling isn't supposed to be there, it's more of a comfortable feeling where something just feels right with another person.
Either way, I'd pick up a part two about her graduating college and moving back to Texas. That would be very interesting, especially if Mason was somehow involved.
This book is so promising. It's probably one of the best free reads I've received from Amazon this year. That's not to say there's a few plot holes that I would love to be filled, like Hiney not being that great of a friend and how she was pretty selfish despite being surrounded by seemingly great people. I also would've like to at least get a last word from ALL the characters they introduced from the STEM club, her best friend, and her dad.
I really liked the idea of Honey wanting to find her soul mate, although she'd way too young to have even been focused on that. The really interesting thing about it is that it's possible Luca is actually her soul mate. The fireworks feeling isn't supposed to be there, it's more of a comfortable feeling where something just feels right with another person.
Either way, I'd pick up a part two about her graduating college and moving back to Texas. That would be very interesting, especially if Mason was somehow involved.
April 29, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Quinnova Press for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars for this one!
Since I'm more on the adult side of things, this book wasn't one I identified with during certain moments. I'd consider this one more on the teen side of things but it was still a delight full read.
It's got a bit of coming of age and that panic we sort of feel where everything we though we knew is no more. A very sweet book, ideal for teens or those who just want to go back in time to high school for a little bit.
3.5 stars for this one!
Since I'm more on the adult side of things, this book wasn't one I identified with during certain moments. I'd consider this one more on the teen side of things but it was still a delight full read.
It's got a bit of coming of age and that panic we sort of feel where everything we though we knew is no more. A very sweet book, ideal for teens or those who just want to go back in time to high school for a little bit.
January 2, 2023
This was a sweet story and an easy read, just nothing about it that drew me in and made me love it.
March 2, 2022
Rating:
1.5 stars
The following book contains some language and references to underaged drinking.
This is going to be one of those "it's not you, it's me" reviews.
If We Break Up is one of those books where you can pretty much read the synopsis and figure out how the entire book is gonna go. I don't say that to be judgmental. Sometimes you just want some fun, predictable fluff. (I marathon Hallmark movies every Christmas. I am in no way bashing fun, predictable fluff.) I knew what I was signing up for when I picked If We Break Up up. I knew how it was going to end, but I was still disappointed (and a little upset) when it did. So really, I have no one to blame but myself.
But let's start from the beginning. One of the reasons I picked up If We Break Up was its synopsis. I wanted something fun and formulaic, and I wanted some romance with STEM. But then I actually started reading it and my writer brain started playing "what-if..." and when the story I made up in my head was decidedly not what Cheyanne Young had in store for me, I realized I actually didn't want the cookie cutter version. I wanted the unexpected, slightly more complex version. I could go on a big, long, spoiler-filled rant about my issues with the story (and how my version is so much better,) but I'll hold back for now since the book isn't out yet and because it really isn't anyone's fault but my own. What you see is what you get with If We Break Up, and I can't really blame anyone for that.
I will say that the climax in act three and everything after was a little ridiculous despite my feelings about the actual ending. The rest of the book moved at an almost painful snail's pace, and then Young decided to throw obstacle after obstacle into the story to the point where it was just absurd. It's one thing to make a specific couple end game, but it's another to do it with all the care of ramming a square peg into a round hole. I like childhood friends-to-lovers and I like academic rivals-to-lovers (you can thank L.M. Montgomery for that one,) so this theoretically should have been a win-win for me. Both sides of the love triangle are sides that I love...except it wasn't. Luca and Mason (and Honey for that matter) were all undeveloped almost caricature-like cardboard cutouts of their tropes which only made the sudden shift in act three that much worse. My biggest pet peeve when it comes to love triangles is and Young did just that without any kind of warning. If that's the route you're gonna take (and you really shouldn't,) then at least drop some hints and use some foreshadowing to lead up to it! It doesn't make it any more palatable but at least it feels slightly more consistent.
I'll be honest, the whole reading experience was hard for me. I probably should've DNF'd the book with a simple "it's not you, it's me" as soon as I realized it was heading in a direction I didn't want to be going. I would've if I were the type of person who were smart enough to do that kind of thing, but I kept pushing on. Even then, I almost did put the book down once we got the midpoint of the story because it was just so frustratingly painful for me to read, but like a bystander watching a train wreck, I kept trucking on like a fool. So keep in mind that most of my issues with the book are personal and not at all related to Cheyanne Young's actual writing. If you're looking for a lighthearted*, cheesy read, If We Break Up is probably the book for you. (Though I still stand by my stance that Act 3 is way more melodramatic than it has any right to be.) Just don't be like me and get mad when you actually get a lighthearted, cheesy read.
I received an eARC from Quinnova Press, Xpresso Book Tours and Cheyanne Young in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The following book contains some language and references to underaged drinking.
This is going to be one of those "it's not you, it's me" reviews.
If We Break Up is one of those books where you can pretty much read the synopsis and figure out how the entire book is gonna go. I don't say that to be judgmental. Sometimes you just want some fun, predictable fluff. (I marathon Hallmark movies every Christmas. I am in no way bashing fun, predictable fluff.) I knew what I was signing up for when I picked If We Break Up up. I knew how it was going to end, but I was still disappointed (and a little upset) when it did. So really, I have no one to blame but myself.
But let's start from the beginning. One of the reasons I picked up If We Break Up was its synopsis. I wanted something fun and formulaic, and I wanted some romance with STEM. But then I actually started reading it and my writer brain started playing "what-if..." and when the story I made up in my head was decidedly not what Cheyanne Young had in store for me, I realized I actually didn't want the cookie cutter version. I wanted the unexpected, slightly more complex version. I could go on a big, long, spoiler-filled rant about my issues with the story (and how my version is so much better,) but I'll hold back for now since the book isn't out yet and because it really isn't anyone's fault but my own. What you see is what you get with If We Break Up, and I can't really blame anyone for that.
I will say that the climax in act three and everything after was a little ridiculous despite my feelings about the actual ending. The rest of the book moved at an almost painful snail's pace, and then Young decided to throw obstacle after obstacle into the story to the point where it was just absurd. It's one thing to make a specific couple end game, but it's another to do it with all the care of ramming a square peg into a round hole. I like childhood friends-to-lovers and I like academic rivals-to-lovers (you can thank L.M. Montgomery for that one,) so this theoretically should have been a win-win for me. Both sides of the love triangle are sides that I love...except it wasn't. Luca and Mason (and Honey for that matter) were all undeveloped almost caricature-like cardboard cutouts of their tropes which only made the sudden shift in act three that much worse. My biggest pet peeve when it comes to love triangles is and Young did just that without any kind of warning. If that's the route you're gonna take (and you really shouldn't,) then at least drop some hints and use some foreshadowing to lead up to it! It doesn't make it any more palatable but at least it feels slightly more consistent.
I'll be honest, the whole reading experience was hard for me. I probably should've DNF'd the book with a simple "it's not you, it's me" as soon as I realized it was heading in a direction I didn't want to be going. I would've if I were the type of person who were smart enough to do that kind of thing, but I kept pushing on. Even then, I almost did put the book down once we got the midpoint of the story because it was just so frustratingly painful for me to read, but like a bystander watching a train wreck, I kept trucking on like a fool. So keep in mind that most of my issues with the book are personal and not at all related to Cheyanne Young's actual writing. If you're looking for a lighthearted*, cheesy read, If We Break Up is probably the book for you. (Though I still stand by my stance that Act 3 is way more melodramatic than it has any right to be.) Just don't be like me and get mad when you actually get a lighthearted, cheesy read.
I received an eARC from Quinnova Press, Xpresso Book Tours and Cheyanne Young in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 10, 2022
(5.0*)
I really enjoyed this book. I am not sure if it is because I typically do not venture out much further than mystery and thriller, but after reading this young adult romance, I definitely will be checking out some more.
This book originally caught my eye by the title and the cover, but in the end, the concept of the whole story is what really intrigued me.
If We Break Up by Cheyanne Young follows high school sweethearts Honey Blackwell and Luca Rollins. The two of them have been together their whole lives; they were born into dating since their parents are long-term best friends, neighbors, business partners, and high school sweethearts themselves. The whole school, along with the rest of their close friends and family (especially their family), expects the two of them to get married, go to college in their hometown, and continue the family business.
But, Honey, is on a different page, she already secretly applied to her dream-school in Colorado, FLU. Once she lets Luca know, he reacts the complete opposite than Honey expected, leading to a huge argument. After the biggest argument their relationship has encountered, Honey comes across a scientific article online that claims people find their true soulmate after being in five relationships. Honey starts to question if Luca is really even her soulmate. How does she know for sure if he is all she has ever been with??
Soon after discovering the article, Honey poses this experiment to Luca, and they come to a mutual agreement to break up, go on five dates, and either find their soulmate or be led back to one other in the end, proving the two of them are already soulmates. Now it’s time for Honey to figure out what she really wants.
The author writes so beautifully. I loved the pace of this story. It just flows so nice, there was never a time or area in the book that I felt was slow or I was bored of; it is constantly moving. Also, the relationships and mini storylines that are formed between each of the characters are fully developed and explained thoroughly enough to where there is no confusion or missing information.
This book is DEFINITELY something I would recommend. It is just an important book to read at least once in your life. I think for me, I can relate to Honey on a very personal level, so it made this such an intense read, I never knew which way she was going to go!
I cannot wait to check out more of Cheyanne Young’s work. Amazing job on this book!
Thank you NetGalley and Quinnova Press for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. I am not sure if it is because I typically do not venture out much further than mystery and thriller, but after reading this young adult romance, I definitely will be checking out some more.
This book originally caught my eye by the title and the cover, but in the end, the concept of the whole story is what really intrigued me.
If We Break Up by Cheyanne Young follows high school sweethearts Honey Blackwell and Luca Rollins. The two of them have been together their whole lives; they were born into dating since their parents are long-term best friends, neighbors, business partners, and high school sweethearts themselves. The whole school, along with the rest of their close friends and family (especially their family), expects the two of them to get married, go to college in their hometown, and continue the family business.
But, Honey, is on a different page, she already secretly applied to her dream-school in Colorado, FLU. Once she lets Luca know, he reacts the complete opposite than Honey expected, leading to a huge argument. After the biggest argument their relationship has encountered, Honey comes across a scientific article online that claims people find their true soulmate after being in five relationships. Honey starts to question if Luca is really even her soulmate. How does she know for sure if he is all she has ever been with??
Soon after discovering the article, Honey poses this experiment to Luca, and they come to a mutual agreement to break up, go on five dates, and either find their soulmate or be led back to one other in the end, proving the two of them are already soulmates. Now it’s time for Honey to figure out what she really wants.
The author writes so beautifully. I loved the pace of this story. It just flows so nice, there was never a time or area in the book that I felt was slow or I was bored of; it is constantly moving. Also, the relationships and mini storylines that are formed between each of the characters are fully developed and explained thoroughly enough to where there is no confusion or missing information.
This book is DEFINITELY something I would recommend. It is just an important book to read at least once in your life. I think for me, I can relate to Honey on a very personal level, so it made this such an intense read, I never knew which way she was going to go!
I cannot wait to check out more of Cheyanne Young’s work. Amazing job on this book!
Thank you NetGalley and Quinnova Press for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 13, 2022
Honey and Luca have been childhood friends, classmates, been dating for forever,and about to head to college together... They're even expected to be married someday. And yet, she doesn't feel those fireworks... Were those even there in the first place? So before graduation, both of them decided to "temporarily break-up", date five other people, and see if they're really soulmates. But for Honey, she'd just rather go the her dream college, away from what's expected of her
This book description is everything! The plot is just so interesting and it just has that impression that sucks you in.
Honey is such a great main character. I love that we get to know her thoughts. Especially how she describes Luca, her family, and her community. You just definitely start rooting for her. Plus points, because she is into STEM! I also love that we're discovering new things with her, her passions, and her thoughts.
The flow of the story is so great too. I really love that the way the author filled us in on the world she lives in, the heartbreak of breaking up with Luca, and just her passions of going to the college of her choice and breaking the tradition.
The dates are also very realistic and relatable! I just love the process of Honey transforming and the realizations about what true love and soulmates are.
I also just have to add, that I am Filipino. One of the characters is half Filipino and I started squealing when I learned about it. I am totally here for it and I'm just so happy to see that We got a spotlight.
Here's a few stuff that I dislike: I thought the book left some loose ends, they were more of a minor thing, but I just thought they could've been left with better conclusions. There were some things that I hoped had more details. like I said, more of minor things but I just liked to know what happened to the other characters.
Overall, I loved this book. I devoured the last stretch of it. I slept at 2am just wanting to know how this book ends. Everything was both making me giddy and also breaking my heart. There were no boring parts of it, and I'm so happy that I read this book.
I have rrecieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book description is everything! The plot is just so interesting and it just has that impression that sucks you in.
Honey is such a great main character. I love that we get to know her thoughts. Especially how she describes Luca, her family, and her community. You just definitely start rooting for her. Plus points, because she is into STEM! I also love that we're discovering new things with her, her passions, and her thoughts.
The flow of the story is so great too. I really love that the way the author filled us in on the world she lives in, the heartbreak of breaking up with Luca, and just her passions of going to the college of her choice and breaking the tradition.
The dates are also very realistic and relatable! I just love the process of Honey transforming and the realizations about what true love and soulmates are.
I also just have to add, that I am Filipino. One of the characters is half Filipino and I started squealing when I learned about it. I am totally here for it and I'm just so happy to see that We got a spotlight.
Here's a few stuff that I dislike: I thought the book left some loose ends, they were more of a minor thing, but I just thought they could've been left with better conclusions. There were some things that I hoped had more details. like I said, more of minor things but I just liked to know what happened to the other characters.
Overall, I loved this book. I devoured the last stretch of it. I slept at 2am just wanting to know how this book ends. Everything was both making me giddy and also breaking my heart. There were no boring parts of it, and I'm so happy that I read this book.
I have rrecieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2022
𝙄𝙛 𝙒𝙚 𝘽𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙐𝙥 𝙗𝙮 𝘾𝙝𝙚𝙮𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙚 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙜
𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙚: 4 �
“𝐶𝑟𝑎𝑧� ℎ𝑜� 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛� 𝑠𝑜 𝑏𝑒𝑎𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑓𝑢𝑙 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛� 𝑠𝑜 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑢𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒.�
_
i finished reading this book in two sittings only. i think the concept and the plot were well thought and written. this book follows the story about Honey Blackwell and her high school lifetime. she grew up with everything already planned out for her by her parents. Honey has a boyfriend, who is Luca also known as her childhood friends or the one and only friend ever. they grew up together since in diapers. their parents are high school friends and they want their children to be in relationship just like them so they could manage and continue their business in the future. now on the verge of graduating high school Luca wants to do what their parents told them to do. But, Honey have her own dream college in another state and that’s the reason their relationship became strained so Honey made a plan according to a science research, she and Luca decided to take a break and go on for a 5 dates each to know are they really soulmates or their soulmates are the other person. and that’s how the story starts.
really enjoyable read for me i literally love to know more so that’s why i couldn’t put it down. it was such a beautiful coming of age novel. the characters, Honey is so relatable and she is so sweet, i could relate to her mostly just love her confidence. Luca also is a great guy and very hot popular guy in school you know what i mean. AND ANOTHER CHARACTERS MASON. OMG I LOVE HIM he’s an AMAZING CHARACTER. but the ending for me, Mason didn’t get his own ending that he deserves. THE ENDING is a bit disappointed actually for me. not overall. but the romance in this book is a bit lacking. i hope there’s more romance so i could simping over them :( there’s some part that worthy swooning and banter between characters are perfect. no i ain’t complaining but i’m just saying it should be ended well. overall, i enjoyed reading it and will try to read more from this author.
guys do read this book bcs this book is not predictable. if you love some good YA romance do read this book. if you are a STEM sucker GO READ IT and meet Honey. i really recommend it.
lastly, thank you for Netgalley and Xpresso Book Tours for this ARC!
𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙚: 4 �
“𝐶𝑟𝑎𝑧� ℎ𝑜� 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛� 𝑠𝑜 𝑏𝑒𝑎𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑓𝑢𝑙 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛� 𝑠𝑜 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑢𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒.�
_
i finished reading this book in two sittings only. i think the concept and the plot were well thought and written. this book follows the story about Honey Blackwell and her high school lifetime. she grew up with everything already planned out for her by her parents. Honey has a boyfriend, who is Luca also known as her childhood friends or the one and only friend ever. they grew up together since in diapers. their parents are high school friends and they want their children to be in relationship just like them so they could manage and continue their business in the future. now on the verge of graduating high school Luca wants to do what their parents told them to do. But, Honey have her own dream college in another state and that’s the reason their relationship became strained so Honey made a plan according to a science research, she and Luca decided to take a break and go on for a 5 dates each to know are they really soulmates or their soulmates are the other person. and that’s how the story starts.
really enjoyable read for me i literally love to know more so that’s why i couldn’t put it down. it was such a beautiful coming of age novel. the characters, Honey is so relatable and she is so sweet, i could relate to her mostly just love her confidence. Luca also is a great guy and very hot popular guy in school you know what i mean. AND ANOTHER CHARACTERS MASON. OMG I LOVE HIM he’s an AMAZING CHARACTER. but the ending for me, Mason didn’t get his own ending that he deserves. THE ENDING is a bit disappointed actually for me. not overall. but the romance in this book is a bit lacking. i hope there’s more romance so i could simping over them :( there’s some part that worthy swooning and banter between characters are perfect. no i ain’t complaining but i’m just saying it should be ended well. overall, i enjoyed reading it and will try to read more from this author.
guys do read this book bcs this book is not predictable. if you love some good YA romance do read this book. if you are a STEM sucker GO READ IT and meet Honey. i really recommend it.
lastly, thank you for Netgalley and Xpresso Book Tours for this ARC!
January 11, 2022
Would you have the courage to ask the really hard questions that could change your life forever? That is exactly what Honey Blackwell does in If We Break Up when she wonders if Luca, the boy she has literally known forever, is her soulmate.
Her parents and Luca's parents have been best friends since high school. They started a business together and are even next door neighbors. Honey's life is mapped out: she will go to the local college, marry Luca, join her parents' business as a realtor like her mom and live happily ever after. But lately, Honey has been wondering if there could be more for her which would include her dream school out of state. Were she and Luca really meant to be together or was it just the "easy" thing to do?
One of the things I love most about Cheyanne Young's writing is that she's not afraid to have her characters ask those messy questions and have flaws. (And she truly writes the yummiest characters.) We get to meet Honey's STEM club friends, including her mortal enemy, Mason, and delve deeper into the side of her life that isn't part of the plan she and Luca's family have in place for them. Honey has to figure out what she really wants and decide if it is worth disappointing pretty much everyone in her life.
I think this is an important book for my students to read to give them the courage to challenge the status quo, and I will definitely be adding it to my library. (Especially since they are already such huge fans of The Last Wish of Sasha Cade.) If I am perfectly honest, this is a book I wish I had been able to read in high school.
Let's just say that Cheyanne Young is a must-read author for me, and I will continue to read absolutely anything she writes. Speaking of, I need to know what happens next since I did not want If We Break Up to end! Sequel, pretty please?!
Special thanks to the author for an arc since I clearly could not wait to read her newest book!
Her parents and Luca's parents have been best friends since high school. They started a business together and are even next door neighbors. Honey's life is mapped out: she will go to the local college, marry Luca, join her parents' business as a realtor like her mom and live happily ever after. But lately, Honey has been wondering if there could be more for her which would include her dream school out of state. Were she and Luca really meant to be together or was it just the "easy" thing to do?
One of the things I love most about Cheyanne Young's writing is that she's not afraid to have her characters ask those messy questions and have flaws. (And she truly writes the yummiest characters.) We get to meet Honey's STEM club friends, including her mortal enemy, Mason, and delve deeper into the side of her life that isn't part of the plan she and Luca's family have in place for them. Honey has to figure out what she really wants and decide if it is worth disappointing pretty much everyone in her life.
I think this is an important book for my students to read to give them the courage to challenge the status quo, and I will definitely be adding it to my library. (Especially since they are already such huge fans of The Last Wish of Sasha Cade.) If I am perfectly honest, this is a book I wish I had been able to read in high school.
Let's just say that Cheyanne Young is a must-read author for me, and I will continue to read absolutely anything she writes. Speaking of, I need to know what happens next since I did not want If We Break Up to end! Sequel, pretty please?!
Special thanks to the author for an arc since I clearly could not wait to read her newest book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.